When things happen that are seemingly out of our control, it’s easy to feel helpless and overwhelmed.
I have been in this position many times in my life and always find that figuring out ways I ‘can’ be in control really gives me peace of mind, and power.
Our immune system defends the body from foreign, invading organisms, promoting protective immunity. Now more than ever we need to keep our immune systems strong... for prevention and recovery.
There are many things we can do to take control... making an effort to boost our immune systems is something we can be in control of.
Follow the advice... whatever your age. #stayhome to protect yourself, especially if you are over 60 or if you have a pre-existing health condition. However, healthy, relatively young people have a responsibility to stay well too so they can avoid spreading an infection that could be serious for someone more vulnerable.
1. Vitamin C & D
Taking Vitamin C boosts the immune system and helps to fight off pathogens. It protects the endothelium linin blood vessels – preventing/delaying passage of pathogens from the bloodstream. If illness hits, Vitamin C can shorten the duration. Many doctors recommend taking larger doses of Vitamin C once you become ill. Vitamin D helps reduce the risk of respiratory infections, including colds and flu. Taking Vitamin D and getting some sunshine daily can really boost your immune system and your mood.
2. Garlic
Garlic contains a compound called Allicin that has been well studied for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Eating garlic and taking a garlic supplement both boost the immune system.
3. Bone Broth – there is a reason your Grandma made it for you
Bone broth has been shown to help seal openings in the gut that may lead to an overactive and eventually weakened immune system. Bone broth is easy for the body to absorb, can help heal and seal the gut, and it also has anti-inflammatory properties. You can make your own homemade bone broth, purchase it (make sure it’s made from real bones and not just the meat) or buy my Intentionally Bare Bone Broth Protein Powder (unflavored) (US | Canada), which has the added benefit of 20g’s of protein per serving.
4. Now’s the time to stay Keto
Keeping our insulin levels lows makes a huge difference in the strength of our immune system. There is evidence that high insulin levels and insulin resistance links to poor immune responses. Eating low carb certainly helps, but being in an actual state of ketosis triggers the release of immune system cells that produce mucus in the cell linings of the lung and traps the virus before it becomes worse.
5. Fasting
Fasting has been shown to regenerate, reset and boost the immune system. Studies show that fasting provides many health benefits, including better cardiovascular health, better endurance, lower blood pressure, reduced inflammation and boosted immune system. If you are in my Intentionally Bare Keto Support Group, Unit 6 is all about fasting and intermittent fasting. If you are not in my group and would like to be, click here.
6. MCT Oil
MCT Oil that is high in C8 Caprylic Acid has been shown to fight bacterial infections and viruses. Like bone broth, it helps heal a leaky gut and it aids in nutrient absorption so we get more benefit from the foods we eat and supplements we take. My Intentionally Bare MCT Oil Powder (US | Canada), Pure C8 Oil (US | Canada) or Capsules are 70 – 99.2% C8 (depending on product).
7. Boost that microbiome!
The microbiome is the genetic material of all the microbes – bacteria, fungi, protazoa, and viruses – that live on and inside the human body. Including microbiome-boosting probiotics and fermented foods in your diet may lower the risk of infection, decrease the severity of illness and help you recover faster. Sauerkraut is known to help with bacterial infections, while Kimchi has been shown to help with viral infections. Both boost the immune system and improve gut health.
8. Keep moving
Create a new routine at home which includes alternate ways to keep active. As tempting as it may be to stay in bed and work in your PJ’s, being active boosts the immune system and helps lower stress and improve mood. Ways I keep active at home are rotating between jumping jacks, going up and down my stairs, going for walks, plank for 30 seconds, squats and other bodyweight exercises. I have yoga DVD's and I stretch often. I work at a desk most of the day so to keep active I set a timer on my phone to go off every hour and when it goes off... I get up and do something!
9. Don’t lose sleep over it!
Adequate sleep is the foundation of your whole immune system, as the hormone melatonin stimulates new immune cells during our sleep. Try not to watch the news or go online before bed, especially if it’s anything upsetting. I read and have a cup of chamomile tea before bed, as well I take a sublingual melatonin supplement.
10. Keep your mind positive
Incorporating meditation, visualization and/or a Gratitude Journal goes a long way to improve mood and lower stress, which in turn... boosts the immune system.
We got this!
Leta
~ Intentionally Bare
❗️ DISCLAIMER: Health information given here is based on public research and is not meant to take the place of your doctor's advice. Always do your own research and discuss it with your health practitioner before trying a new diet, supplement or exercise plan.
❗️ DISCLOSURE: I manufacture a line of 100% natural keto products under the brand name, Intentionally Bare. These products will be mentioned from time to time because they are amazingly healthy and fantastic for those on a ketogenic diet or anyone looking to improve their health. I am also a participant in the Amazon services LLC Associates Program, designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.** I ONLY ever post a link to products I personally USE and LOVE!
